The Palais Rohan stands as a monumental testament to Strasbourg's rich political and artistic heritage. Constructed between 1732 and 1742 as the prestigious residence for the prince-bishops of the House of Rohan, this French Baroque masterpiece continues to dominate the historic center adjacent to the cathedral.

Commissioned in 1727 by Cardinal Armand-Gaston de Rohan-Soubise, this former bishop's palace has witnessed remarkable transformations through the centuries, serving as both an administrative power center and a showcase of artistic refinement. The building's exterior is characterized by its noble classical facades, while the interior reveals a world of opulent decoration featuring gilded stucco, elegant frescoes, and fine tapestries that reflect the sophisticated tastes of its original residents. The building's structural design follows the model of grand Parisian residences while incorporating regional characteristics through its distinctive yellow sandstone construction.

Architectural design follows classical French principles with harmonious symmetry and balanced proportions. The palace's ground floor originally housed service areas and kitchens, while the upper floors contained the lavish ceremonial apartments and private quarters. Particularly noteworthy are the King's bedroom and the Assembly room, which represent highlights of regional Rococo artistry. The lavish interiors, including the Cardinal's apartments, were decorated with stucco, frescoes, tapestries and paintings reflecting the opulent lifestyle maintained by the prince-bishops, who governed the Prince-Bishopric of Strasbourg. The facades feature meticulously carved decorative elements, columns and sculptural groups that create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the day.

Following its completion, the palace remained the property of the archdiocese until the French Revolution, when it was confiscated by the state. In the post-revolutionary period, the building was converted into the new town hall in 1791. Throughout the 19th century, the building served multiple civic functions before its ultimate transformation into a museum complex.

The palace's historical significance is further emphasized by its designation as a historic monument in 1920. The building's continuous adaptation—from ecclesiastical residence to municipal administration and finally to its current museum function, perfectly illustrates its enduring significance to the city's identity.